Fresh, professionally applied striping paint can greatly improve the appearance and safety of asphalt pavement. From parking lots to busy metropolitan streets, crisp lines and visible pavement markings can guide drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to help improve everyone’s safety. Quality markings also demonstrate that you care about the property for which you are responsible. However, you will need to refresh your pavement markings and stripes periodically. Your striping contractor will probably recommend that you have new markings applied as soon as the appearance of the existing paint has been reduced by approximately 25 percent of its original visibility. For most pavements, this means that new paint will be needed every 18 to 30 months.
What Factors Affect the Drying Time of Parking Lot Paint?
In most cases, the paint will be dry enough to allow vehicle traffic in approximately one hour. However, that depends on the weather, whether you need additional asphalt maintenance procedures performed, and the type of pavement paint that you select.
• Most asphalt striping companies prefer to use a water-based paint. This type of paint is economical, cleans up easily, and can be used for striping, curb painting, stenciling and various other applications. However, water-based paint is more dependent on the weather than oil-based paint.
• Weather can affect the drying time of paint because drying relies on evaporation. In general, the higher the humidity level and the lower the temperature, the longer it will take for pavement paint to dry thoroughly. The wind is also a factor; extremely still air slows the evaporation rate, potentially extending the time needed for the paint to dry.
• If your pavement is new or has recently been sealed, the paint may appear too thin if only one coat is applied. Experienced asphalt companies know that the results will be much better if the issue is addressed by applying two thin coats instead of one thick coat. A thick application cannot dry easily, and thickly applied paint has a tendency to crack, peel and flake. In most cases, a second coat will not have a significant impact on the length of time that you must keep your pavement closed, but you should ask your contractor about the possibility if your schedule is tight.
• If you choose a specialty treatment or paint, be sure to ask your contractor whether your selection will impact your ability to admit vehicles quickly. For example, if you need reflective beads installed, choose thermoplastic pavement markings, or decide to use a special oil-based paint for durability, ask whether your selection will require keeping your pavement closed for a longer period.
MH Greeson is an asphalt maintenace contractor and we provide high-quality asphalt repairs, pavement markings that sealcoating Atlanta customers need at prices that they can afford. Our services include crack repairs, asphalt overlays and pothole repairs. We can help you bring your property into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, install bollards, maintain your tennis court, install traffic signs and replace or install car stops. We are known in Metro Atlanta and the Marietta, GA area for quality workmanship and reasonable rates. For a free quote, fill out the online request form or call 770-335-2983.
